The animal rescue team from Faversham fire station prepare to lift the sedated bull onto a trailer. Picture: Mark Roberts

The coast-bound A2 between Canterbury and Bridge was closed for nearly three hours on Tuesday after a trailer carrying a bull overturned.

The accident led to the huge tailbacks and closures in both directions before the animal was eventually taken away in another trailer.

Police firearms officers were also called the scene in case the bull escaped and posed a risk to the public.

Police said the bull was agitated, despite being sedated by a vet.

The incident occurred at about 10.45am as the animal was being transported in a horsebox pulled by a 4x4 vehicle which jackknifed across the coastbound carriageway.